The nation on course to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has seen more than 10 leaders.
Actually, a specialist compares taking up the nation's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does the country keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition comes from inside the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own clique to get the top job."
"So even though you might be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance limits outside challenges
- Party infighting fuel leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
