The nation on course to elect female prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has had more than 10 leaders.
Actually, a specialist compares assuming the country's top job to drinking from a "cursed cup".
But why does the country keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "single-party system", explains Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the primary rivalry originates inside the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all desire their own clique to get the top job."
"So even though you could be chosen as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have many individuals scheming to try to get you out again."
Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength
