This paper expounds the functions of deep pools in terms of ecology, economy and landscape based on field investigation of water volume, bottom substrate and aquatic animals of deep pools located in some sections of Zhuhe River, Shandong Province, combined with literature review. Taking the current situation of urban rivers into account, we believe that building deep pools in urban rivers has a positive effect on ecosystem, water quality and landscape of the urban rivers. We also propose five principles of the construction of a deep pool with two building forms of “shoal-deep pool"and “ladder-deep pool", in order to provide reference for the ecological transformation of urban rivers.