The nation set to choose woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has seen more than 10 leaders.
Actually, one expert compares taking up the country's highest office to taking a "cursed cup".
But why does Japan keep changing leaders? 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 political landscape means the main political competition comes from inside the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all desire their own faction to get the top job."
"Thus although you could be chosen as leader, the moment you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Main Reasons Behind Frequent Changes
- One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength
