The nation set to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
In the past twenty years, the country has seen more than 10 leaders.
In fact, a specialist likens taking up the nation's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".
But why does Japan keep changing leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", says Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition originates within the party, instead of from external parties.
"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own clique to get the top job."
"So even though you could be chosen as leader, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance limits external competition
- Party infighting drive power struggles
- The prime minister's position is frequently called a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays elusive despite economic strength
