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In the past twenty years, the country has had over ten leaders.

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

However, what is the reason does the country frequently replace leaders? It's due in part of it being a "one-party democracy", says Professor James Brown of Temple University Japan.

The Liberal Democratic Party's control on the country's politics means the main political competition originates within the party, rather than from external parties.

"So within the LDP there are intense conflicts within different factions - they all desire their own faction to secure the top job."

"Thus although you could be selected as prime minister, the moment you're in office, you have dozens of people scheming to try to remove you again."

Key Factors Behind Frequent Changes

• Single-party rule limits outside challenges
• Party infighting fuel leadership contests
• The leadership role is frequently called a "cursed position"
• Political stability remains difficult to achieve despite economic strength