Abstract: A catalyst carrier composed of a refractory inorganic oxide has a rotationally symmetrical shape having a hollow portion, such as a doughnut shape. An outer peripheral surface and the inner peripheral surface separating the hollow portion are linked by curved surfaces, and the height h of the carrier along the rotational symmetry axis is less than the outer diameter Do of the carrier. Using a catalyst having this carrier shape for a fixed bed makes it possible to prevent granular substances from causing catalyst plugging, and catalyst life can be extended because the catalyst-induced differential pressure increase is low even when granular substances accumulate on the catalyst. It is also possible to prevent the reaction fluid from undergoing channeling. Also provided is a hydrogenation reactor whose fixed bed is packed with the catalyst.