Unlike other Kage, the Yamakage seems to be democratically elected; as Ryun, despite being the founder of the village, still underwent an election process before gaining the rank of Yamakage. After being appointed, they are given the Kage mansion in which to live. However, it seems that only the Chūnin and Jōnin of the village are allowed to vote on a new Yamakage. Once elected, they are in office for life or until they step down.