The nation set to choose woman prime minister in historic first
In the past twenty years, the country has had over ten prime ministers.
Actually, one expert likens taking up the nation's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does Japan keep changing prime ministers? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", says Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from within the party, rather than from external parties.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within various groups - they all desire their own faction to get the leadership position."
"So even though you might be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
- Government continuity remains difficult to achieve despite financial power
