Japan’s Tsunan Sake Brewery Unveils Gold Medal GO DINER in Exclusive Christmas Set For Tourists At Hotel Belnatio

Published on December 24, 2025

Nestled in the winter wonderland of Niigata Prefecture, Hotel Belnatio, which is part of the Atema Kogen Resort in Tokamachi City, has surprised guests with a delightful Christmas offering. In this festive season, the hotel has chosen the Tsunan Sake Brewery and its celebrated Junmai Daiginjo sake, GO DINER, to complement an exceptional Christmas menu. This original collaboration unites two of Niigata’s most prized gastronomic experiences, showcasing local tastes and premium sake.

A Gold Medal Sake: Tsunan Sake Brewery’s GO DINER

GO DINER, the pride of Tsunan Sake Brewery, has earned significant recognition, having secured the Gold Medal in the Junmai Daiginjo category at the prestigious International Wine Challenge (IWC) 2025. The sake’s craftsmanship is rooted in Tsunan’s distinctive geography, where natural spring water from mountains over 2,000 metres above sea level is used in brewing. This pristine water, combined with the area’s heavy snowfall, creates the ideal environment for brewing this exceptional sake. GO DINER is described as having a clean yet deeply layered flavour profile, offering a refreshing and rich taste that is perfect for pairing with gourmet cuisine.

Christmas Special Set at Hotel Belnatio

Hotel Belnatio has curated a festive Christmas Special Set, which pairs GO DINER with an exclusive selection of premium regional delicacies. Guests can indulge in dishes prepared under the supervision of Executive Chef Mitsuhashi, who has carefully designed this menu to complement the exceptional sake. The set features:

• Tsumari Pork White Loin Ham
• Hakkaisan Sake-Marinated Jerky
• Yukimuro-Aged Wagyu Corned Beef
• Country-style Pâté (made with Hakkaisan Kazehana)
• Yukihikari Pork Fresh Salami
• Executive Chef Mitsuhashi’s Specialties: Roast Chicken Leg, Beef Stew, and Roast Beef

This luxurious spread showcases the best of Niigata’s regional cuisine, with each dish selected to enhance the complex flavours of GO DINER. The pairing promises a harmonious balance between the sake’s delicate notes and the richness of the festive menu, creating a memorable experience for guests celebrating the holiday season at the resort.

A Curated Experience by Sake Sommelier Mr. Oshiki

The sake selection for Hotel Belnatio’s Christmas Special Set was personally curated by Mr. Oshiki, the store manager at Tsunan Sake Brewery. As a Semifinalist in the Retail Service Category at the 6th World Kikizakeshi (Sake Sommelier) Competition, Mr. Oshiki has been instrumental in creating perfect pairings between local cuisine and regional sake. His expertise played a key role in choosing GO DINER as the perfect sake for Christmas, highlighting the brewery’s commitment to delivering top-quality sake that elevates the dining experience.

A Commitment to Excellence: Tsunan Sake Brewery’s Journey

Tsunami Sake Brewery’s dedication to quality has been recognised across Japan, and the brewery continues to pursue excellence in its craft. As preparations for the 2026 brewing season begin, Tsunan Sake Brewery and Hotel Belnatio look forward to celebrating their 30th anniversaries in 2026. Over the years, Tsunan has become a symbol of craftsmanship and innovation in sake brewing, constantly evolving while remaining deeply connected to the natural environment that defines the region.

The brewery uses locally grown rice such as Gohyakumangoku and Koshihikari from Uonuma, which are considered among the finest varieties in Japan. The company’s dedication to sustainable practices and its pursuit of harmonious coexistence with nature is reflected in every bottle of GO DINER. The IWC Gold Medal victory is a testament to the brewery’s focus on preserving tradition while embracing innovation.

Hotel Belnatio: A Festive Destination for Guests

For visitors looking to experience the best of Niigata during the festive season, Hotel Belnatio offers more than just exquisite dining. The resort’s Christmas Special Set is available through its official online shop, making it accessible to guests both at the hotel and at home. Whether you are staying at the resort or looking to enjoy the experience from afar, the set is an excellent way to savour the tastes of Niigata and celebrate the holiday season.

A Milestone Year Ahead for Tsunan Sake Brewery and Hotel Belnatio

As 2026 approaches, both Tsunan Sake Brewery and Hotel Belnatio are preparing to mark significant milestones in their histories. The two establishments have long been pillars of Niigata’s tourism and culinary offerings, and their upcoming anniversaries promise to be a celebration of craftsmanship, innovation, and community. Visitors who enjoy this exclusive Christmas offering will be treated to not just the flavours of the region but also a sense of the enduring legacy of these beloved local institutions.

Niigata’s Finest for the Holidays

Tsunan Sake Brewery and Hotel Belnatio make it possible to indulge in the best of Niigata during this holiday period. The collaboration of GO DINER with the superior gourmet offerings of the area is proof of the dedication to quality and new ideas that both the brewery and the hotel practice. Not only will visitors depart with a greater understanding of Niigata’s culinary gems, but also with the unforgettable experience of a unique holiday celebration.

Image Credit: Hotel Belnatio