The nation set to choose woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has had more than 10 prime ministers.
In fact, a specialist likens assuming the nation's top job to drinking from a "poisoned chalice".
But why does the country frequently replace prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the main political competition comes from within the party, rather than from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own clique to secure the leadership position."
"So even though you could be selected as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains elusive despite financial power
