· just now. hashira 柱. The generic term for any type of pillar, column, post, pier and strut, the basic members of Japanese timber architecture. The character, itself, is made up of ki 木 meaning tree or wood and, by extension building timber; and 主 meaning main, chief, or master. In traditional construction, pillars are erected first and then all the structural parts including tie beams, roof framework and covering are added.