The nation set to choose woman prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, Japan has seen over ten leaders.
Actually, one expert likens taking up the nation's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does the country frequently replace leaders? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from within the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own clique to get the leadership position."
"Thus although you could be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Party infighting fuel leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite financial power
