The nation set to elect woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has had more than 10 leaders.
In fact, a specialist likens assuming the nation's highest office to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country frequently replace prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof 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 external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own faction to get the leadership position."
"Thus although you might be selected as leader, the moment 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 limits outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
