The local structure of the TiO2 surface modified with electron-donating bidentate ligands, such as catechols, has been investigated by solid-state NMR spectroscopy. The adsorption and degradation processes of catechols at the TiO2 surface were observed. The photocatalytic degradation mechanism of catechols at the TiO2 surface was interpreted in terms of the interfacial charge recombination reaction with conduction band electrons.