The nation on course to elect woman prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, the country has seen more than 10 prime ministers.
Actually, a specialist compares assuming the nation's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan frequently replace prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the main political competition comes from within the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own clique to secure the top job."
"Thus although you could be selected as leader, as soon as you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
