The nation set to elect female prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has had more than 10 leaders.
Actually, one expert compares assuming the country's top job to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part 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 comes from inside the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all desire their own clique to secure the top job."
"So even though you might be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule limits outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The leadership role is often described as a "cursed position"
- Political stability remains elusive despite financial power
