A process for producing an optically active cyclohexanol derivative represented by formula (I): ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1 represents an alkyl group having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, a hydroxyl group, or a protected hydroxyl group, comprising asymmetrically hydrogenating a cyclohexanone derivative in the presence of a catalyst system composed of a transition metal compound (e.g., transition metal complex), a base (e.g., KOH), and a nitrogen compound (e.g., an amine compound).