the Ag-encapsulated Au nanorods (Au@Ag NRs) are prepared and introduced into dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). As a unique plasmonic nanostructure, this composite exhibit the superiorities on enhancing light-harvesting as well as restraining charge recombination of DSSCs. Remarkably enhanced light absorption of photoanode can be obtained via the Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) effect of the Au@Ag NRs, meanwhile a broadened absorption in the red and near-infrared (NIR) region ensures the full utilization of the solar energy. Beyond the dominated optical utility, the presence of the Au@Ag NRs promotes the suppression of the charge recombination, further enhancing the photochemical catalysis of DSSCs. The optimized Au@Ag NR modified DSSC is achieved with the power conversion efficiency of 8.43%, which is significantly superior to that of the pure TiO₂ DSSC with the PCE of 5.91%.