A non-biased photoelectrochemical (PEC) cell composed of both an n-type semiconductor photoanode and a p-type semiconductor photocathode offers a cost-effective route to convert water directly into high energy density hydrogen using solar energy, which helps address the intermittency and storage problem of solar energy during utilization. Metal oxide semiconductors have the advantages of low cost and facile preparation. Compared with well-developed n-type metal oxide photoanode materials, the stability of conventional p-type metal oxide photocathode materials still remains a challenge due to the photoelectrochemical reduction of metallic ions. As a new type of metal oxide photocathodes, ferrite photocathodes have recently emerged as competitive candidates for practical applications due to the appropriate band gaps, better photostability, higher onset potential and relatively low preparation costs. In this review, the fundamentals of PEC water splitting and common methods for improving performance of photoelectrodes are first introduced, and the recent progress of representative CuFeO₂, CaFe₂O₄ and LaFeO₃ photocathodes are summarized, including their fabrication methods, elements doping and surface modifications. Finally, perspectives on the future development of ferrite photocathodes are also discussed.