The nation on course to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has seen more than 10 prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist compares taking up the country's top job to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does the country frequently replace prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the primary rivalry originates inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own clique to secure the top job."
"So even though you could be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule limits outside challenges
- Party infighting drive leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite financial power
