Abstract: 【Objective】 In order to explore the effects of different softening methods on the structure and main components of bamboo timber，and select the best softening method suitable for different research purposes. 【Method】 Microsections of bamboo culm of Phyllostachys edulis 'Pachyloen’ were taken as the research object，and the paraffin section method with microscopy techniques and UV spectroscopy was used.【Result】 The results showed that the structure was complete and clear after softened by water and chemical softener except triethylene glycol and hydrofluoric acid，which led bamboo culm structure rupture. Besides，ethylenediamine was the optimal softener for the preparation of microsection of bamboo culm.【Conclusion】 10% ethylenediamine softening in a water bath at 100 ℃ was the most convenient and fastest，which was suitable for microscopic sectioning of bamboo plants with high degree of lignification for structural research purposes. For component investigation of bamboo culm，the optimal softening treatment was being softened in a 100 ℃ distilled water bath. The results of this study provides a reference basis for basic research of bamboo culm utilization.