World Rugby and Japan 2019 have confirmed that the pool draw will take place in Kyoto's State Guest House. 

The iconic venue is considered a national symbol in Japan and also played host to the 2016 G7 summit.

Twelve of the 20 participating teams have already been finalised for the quadrennial event.

Argentina, Australia, England, France, Georgia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Scotland, South Africa and Wales automatically qualified courtesy of finishing in the top three of their pools at the 2015 World Cup in England. 

The remaining eight spots will be determined via the global qualification process that kicked off earlier this year.

Five bands of four teams will be chosen for the draw, with each group consisting of one team from each band.

At the 2015 World Cup, this produced a "group of death" from which hosts England failed to progress after being paired with Australia, Wales, Fiji and Uruguay.

New Zealand, England, Australia and Ireland currently occupy the top four ranking positions.

South Africa have dropped to sixth, while it is likely that one of France, Scotland or Wales could have dropped out of the top eight by the time the draw takes place.

This means that a similarly tough draw remains possible once again.

"The pool draw is an important milestone on the road to Rugby World Cup 2019 as it really drives excitement and momentum both in the host nation and throughout the global rugby family," said World Rugby chairman, Bill Beaumont.

"It is the moment when teams and fans really start to plan for their Rugby World Cup 2019 experience.

"Kyoto is synonymous with Japanese culture and heritage and the Kyoto State Guest House is therefore a fitting choice for this prestigious and much-anticipated event.

"The city may not be a match venue for Rugby World Cup 2019, but its selection for the draw reflects our commitment to a tournament that is for all of Japan, with 75 per cent of Japan's population within an hour of a match venue. 

"This is Kyoto's opportunity to play its part in what promises to be a very special and ground-breaking Japan 2019 tournament."