Uniform hierarchical SnS2 structures were synthesized by a facile solvothermal approach. Based on time-dependent experiments results, a possible formation mechanism of the hierarchical SnS2 architectures was proposed. Mesoporous hierarchical SnO2 also could be obtained by calcining the corresponding SnS2 structures. When used as the anode materials of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, both of them showed high specific capacities and enhanced rate capacities. (c) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.