Opposition parties in Japan, in their efforts to counter government positions, may have gained a reputation as being irresponsible and unrealistic.

But as the Nov. 9 election draws near the Democratic Party of Japan says this time will be different.

DPJ President Naoto Kan said Wednesday the party's primary target in the general election of the House of Representatives is to win more than 200 seats in the 480-seat chamber and unseat the Liberal Democratic Party-led ruling coalition.