The present invention discloses a rechargeable zinc ion battery, in which anodic zinc will be electrochemically dissolved as Zn2+ ions, diffuses to the cathodic electrode/electrolyte interface through the electrolyte, and zinc ions subsequently inserted in carbon material during discharging. In charging, above-mentioned process will be reverse. The rechargeable zinc ion battery comprises a carbon cathode; a zinc anode separated from cathode; an aqueous electrolyte contains zinc ions.