While last year's Liberal Democratic Party presidential race ended in a landside victory for Prime Minister Taro Aso, there were signs that the old guard's grip on power is slipping.
For one thing, among those in the running was the first-ever female candidate, ex-Defense Minister Yuriko Koike.
Although Koike didn't grab the top spot, she said the experience made her realize anew the deep responsibility that comes with leading the nation.