Abstract: In China the blackening and stinking of urban waters is a common phenomenon. At present, large-scale governance of black and stinky (BS) water bodies is underway. The seriousness of the problem of BS water bodies in China was briefly introduced, and the current national policy and governance objectives for the treatment of BS water bodies elaborated. The concept of BS water bodies was analyzed, and the idea for their treatment was put forward. The treatment technical route was clarified, including the investigation and diagnosis of problems, the verification of pollutant loads, and the determination of treatment targets of BS water bodies. Formulation of applicable technologies and governance programs, and forecasting of governance effects were also involved. On these bases, the main technical measures for the treatment of BS water bodies were proposed, including pollution source control, hydraulic regulation and ecological restoration, and meanwhile, it was noted that comprehensive management must be strengthened. The progress and of governance cases of BS water bodies at home and abroad were reviewed, and the governance process and existing problems were analyzed. Finally, the suggestions for the treatment of BS water bodies were proposed from four aspects, i.e. the evaluation indicators, the technical systems, the management mechanisms, and the publicity and education.