The nation on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, Japan has seen over ten leaders.
In fact, one expert likens assuming the country's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the primary rivalry comes from within the party, rather than from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all want their own faction to secure the top job."
"Thus although you might be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength
