A nano-structured TiO2 with rutile phase was synthesized by using the hydrothermal method from a titanium carbide (TiC) nano-powder precursor at low temperature to produce a stable visible light responsive photocatalyst. The rutile phase was formed at temperature as low as 100°C, and both synthesis time and temperature affected its formation. The rutile particles showed a faceted nano-rod structure, and were tested for absorption and photo-degradation ability under visible light. Particles with shorter synthesis times showed higher visible light absorption and corresponding photo-degradation ability, while those synthesized at lower temperatures had lower, but still evident, degradation ability under visible light.