The nation on course to elect female prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, Japan has had more than 10 leaders.
In fact, a specialist likens taking up the nation's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", says Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the primary rivalry comes from inside the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own faction to get the top job."
"Thus although you could be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite economic strength
