The nation on course to choose female prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has had more than 10 leaders.
In fact, a specialist likens taking up the country's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
However, what is the reason does Japan frequently replace leaders? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the main political competition comes from within the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own clique to secure the leadership position."
"So even though you could be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have many individuals scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength
