The nation set to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has had over ten leaders.
In fact, one expert compares taking up the nation's highest office to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does the country keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", says Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the main political competition originates inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own faction to secure the top job."
"Thus although you could be selected 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
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Party infighting drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity remains elusive despite financial power
