The nation on course to choose female prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, the country has seen more than 10 prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist compares taking up the nation's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does the country frequently replace 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 political landscape means the primary rivalry comes from within the party, rather than from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all desire their own faction to secure the top job."
"Thus although you might be selected as leader, as soon as you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Party infighting fuel power struggles
- The leadership role is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite economic strength
