The invention discloses a preparation method of a hydrogenation catalyst. The preparation method comprises a step of preparation of the modified aluminium oxide-based carrier, and a step of loading of hydrogenation active metals. According to the preparation method, water soluble silicone oil and a soluble aluminum-containing compound are introduced into an aluminium oxide-based carrier successively or simultaneously, and the modified aluminium oxide-based carrier is obtained via heat treatment. The preparation method is capable of adjusting distribution of acid centers and hydrogenation active centers, achieving coordination effects, and improving comprehensive performance of the hydrogenation catalyst.