The final countdown is on for the first day of the Rugby World Cup.

Hosts Japan face off against Russia in the opening match tonight.

The All Blacks begin their campaign tomorrow night against South Africa.

Former All Black Stephen Donald is in Japan told Mike Hosking he can feel the excitement building.

"I came up on the plane yesterday with a fair few Kiwis.

"Walking around the streets of Tokyo, you just know something big is happening."

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