expression, noun
horse chestnut; conker
Refers specifically to the nut of the Japanese horse chestnut tree (Aesculus turbinata). Often used in contexts of foraging, traditional food (after leaching), or children's play.
秋になると、子どもたちは栃の実を拾って遊ぶ。
In autumn, children pick up horse chestnuts and play with them.
栃の実はあく抜きをしてから食べられる。
Horse chestnuts can be eaten after removing their bitterness.
栗 is the sweet chestnut (Castanea crenata), commonly eaten roasted or in rice. 栃の実 is the horse chestnut, which is larger, more bitter, and requires processing before eating.
栃 (tochi) refers to the Japanese horse chestnut tree, and 実 (mi) means 'nut' or 'fruit'. The reading とちのみ is a straightforward compound.