The nation on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, the country has had over ten prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens taking up the country's highest office to drinking from a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does Japan keep changing prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition originates inside the party, rather than from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own clique to secure the leadership position."
"Thus although you might be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule limits outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
