The nation set to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has seen over ten prime ministers.
Actually, a specialist compares assuming the country's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does Japan frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from inside the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own clique to secure the top job."
"So even though you might be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
