The nation on course to elect woman prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, Japan has seen more than 10 prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist likens assuming the nation's top job to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan keep changing prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the main political competition originates within the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own faction to secure the top job."
"So even though you might be selected as leader, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals scheming to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule limits outside challenges
- Party infighting fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite economic strength
