The nation on course to elect woman prime minister in landmark first
Over the last two decades, the country has had more than 10 leaders.
In fact, one expert compares assuming the nation's top job to taking a "cursed cup".
However, what is the reason 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 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 intense conflicts within different factions - they all want their own clique to secure the leadership position."
"So even though you might be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in office, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to get you out again."
Main Reasons Behind Rapid Turnover
- One-party dominance restricts external competition
- Internal factional rivalries fuel leadership contests
- The leadership role is often described as a "cursed position"
- Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite financial power
