The nation on course to elect female prime minister in historic first

In the past twenty years, Japan has seen over ten leaders.

Actually, one expert likens taking up the country's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".

However, what is the reason does the country keep changing leaders? This is partly because of it being a "single-party system", says Professor 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 external parties.

"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within various groups - they all desire their own clique to get the leadership position."

"So even though you might be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in power, you have many individuals scheming to try to remove you again."

Key Factors Behind Rapid Turnover

• One-party dominance restricts external competition
• Internal factional rivalries drive leadership contests
• The leadership role is frequently called a "poisoned chalice"
• Political stability remains elusive despite economic strength