The nation on course to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen more than 10 leaders.
In fact, a specialist compares taking up the nation's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does the country keep changing leaders? It's due in part 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 external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own faction to secure the leadership position."
"So even though you might be chosen as leader, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Party infighting drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite financial power
