The nation set to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, the country has had over ten leaders.
Actually, one expert likens taking up the country's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does Japan keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates within the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"So even though you could be selected as leader, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule limits outside challenges
- Party infighting drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite financial power