Eu3+-doped Y2O3, YOF, La2O3, LaOF hollow spheres have been synthesized by a facile template route. Eu3+ NE were doped into the various host materials to make the hollow sphere red-luminescent. Difference in fluorescence spectra recorded on the hollow spheres were compared in detail and attributed to the different crystal symmetry of host materials. These phosphors might find applications in the fields such as light phosphor powders, advanced flat panel display, or biological labeling. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.