Japan on course to elect female prime minister in historic first
Over the last two decades, the country has had over ten leaders.
In fact, a specialist likens taking up the nation's highest office to drinking from a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace leaders? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", explains Prof James Brown of Temple University in Japan.
The LDP's grip on the political landscape means the main political competition originates within the party, instead of from opposition groups.
"Therefore inside the LDP there are vicious struggles within different factions - they all want their own faction to get the leadership position."
"So even though you could be chosen as leader, as soon as you're in office, you have dozens of people manoeuvring to try to remove you again."
Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance limits outside challenges
- Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
- The prime minister's position is often described as a "poisoned chalice"
- Political stability remains elusive despite economic strength