The nation on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has had more than 10 leaders.
Actually, one expert likens taking up the nation's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does Japan frequently replace prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the main political competition comes from inside the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own clique to get the top job."
"So even though you could be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite financial power