[Problem] To provide a means which is capable of dissolving a cellulose under mild conditions using a relatively safe substance. [Solution] A method for producing an aqueous cellulose solution, which comprises a step wherein a purified cellulose or a substance containing a cellulose is brought into contact with an aqueous quaternary ammonium hydroxide solution, and which is characterized in that the total concentration of alkali metal halides and/or alkaline earth metal halides dissolved in the aqueous quaternary ammonium hydroxide solution is 1% by weight or less in a state where the aqueous quaternary ammonium hydroxide solution is in contact with the cellulose starting material. Alternatively, a method for producing an aqueous cellulose solution, which comprises a step wherein a cellulose starting material is brought into contact with an aqueous quaternary ammonium hydroxide solution, and which is characterized in that the cellulose starting material is brought into contact with the aqueous quaternary ammo
