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

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

In fact, one expert likens taking up the nation's top job to taking a "poisoned chalice".

However, what is the reason does Japan keep changing prime ministers? This is partly because of it being a "one-party democracy", says Professor James Brown of Temple University in Japan.

The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the political landscape means the primary rivalry comes from 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 might be chosen as prime minister, as soon as you're in power, you have many individuals manoeuvring to try to remove you again."

Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes

• One-party dominance restricts outside challenges
• Party infighting fuel leadership contests
• The leadership role is often described as a "cursed position"
• Government continuity stays difficult to achieve despite economic strength