The nation on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has seen more than 10 leaders.
In fact, one expert likens taking up the country's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan frequently replace prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own clique to secure the top job."
"Thus although you could be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have dozens of people scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite financial power
