The SnO2/carbon nanotubes encapsulated in graphene sheets (CSGN) composites are synthesized via a sonochemical method which is straightforward, low-cost and operable under ambient conditions. The open spaces formed by carbon nanotubes and graphene offering the accommodation of volume change and the access of an easy electrolyte-wetting, and the improved electrical conductivity by the presence of graphene and carbon nanotubes, lead to the superior cycling performance. As a result, the CSGN with SnO2 content of 61.4 wt% exhibits a reversible specific capacity of 842.9 mAh g−1 at the first cycle and retains 793.8 mAh g−1 after 50 cycles at a current density of 125mAg−1, indicating a high capacity retention rate of 94%. The cycling performance is attributed to the unique structure of CSGN and enhanced electrical conductivity, which may make much sense to the structure designing of other electrode materials for lithium ion batteries.