The nation set to choose female prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, Japan has seen over ten prime ministers.
Actually, a specialist compares taking up the country's highest office to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan frequently replace prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Prof James Brown of Temple University Japan.
The LDP's grip on the country's politics means the primary rivalry comes from inside the party, rather than from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own clique to get the top job."
"Thus although you could be chosen as leader, the moment you're in power, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- Single-party rule limits external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel power struggles
- The leadership role is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability stays difficult to achieve despite financial power
