Abstract:Difu( ground beams) are key for the stabilization of column feet, which was an important task in the course of development of Chinese traditional timber technology. After analyzing the structure of the column feet and their composing elements including difu, the character of their structural joinery as well as their role in the development of timber technology are discussed. This will prove useful in helping the learners to understand the elements of historical timber framing and their distinctive Chinese-ness.