Sensei Wu - White Kimono, Tan Hat (No Hat in image)
njo026 · Ninjago
Masters of Spinjitzu - Pilot / Rise of the Snakes · 2011
Figure ID
njo026
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2011
Rarity
Common to Uncommon. This specific version appeared in several early Ninjago sets and a polybag, making it the most accessible version of the original Sensei Wu design.
Head
Standard yellow minifigure head. Front printing features bushy white eyebrows and a stern, wise expression. It is designed to be paired with the white beard piece [6132] and a Tan conical straw hat, which is missing from this specific example.
Torso
White kimono with silver/grey frog-fastener (button) printing and a grey border. It features a traditional robe design both front and back. The arms are white with yellow hands.
Legs
White hips and legs with printing that continues the kimono pattern. Features a grey border and brown sandals printed at the feet. This version uses a white fabric 'pauldron-style' skirt/waist piece [973pb0905] to simulate the robe's lower half.
Accessories
Usually includes a tan straw hat [93550], a long white beard [6132], and a golden staff (bo staff). The image shows the beard but is missing the hat and staff.
Color Scheme
Primary white and yellow (skin), with grey printing for the robe details and metallic/brown accents for the fasteners and sandals.
Printing Details
Pad-printed. High-quality alignment for 2011. Detail includes the texture of the cloth and traditional Asian-inspired fasteners. No leg-side printing.
Variants
There are over 30 versions of Wu. This specific variant (njo026) is the first iteration. Rare variants include the Golden Wu (njo630) or 'Teen Wu'.
Condition Notes
The white plastic is prone to yellowing if exposed to UV. The fabric skirt often frays at the edges or develops creases. The beard piece can get 'bite marks' or compression marks on the rubber-like material.
Estimated Value
Used (Complete): $5-$8 USD. Used (Incomplete as shown): $3-$5 USD. New/Sealed: $12-$15 USD.
Price (New)
N/A - Originally included in sets ranging from the $4.99 polybag (30082) to the $69.99 Fire Temple (2507).
Compatible Sets
2504 Spinjitzu Dojo, 2507 Fire Temple, 2521 Lightning Dragon Battle, 30082 Training Camp Polybag.
Character Background
Sensei Wu is the wise mentor of the main Ninjago team (Kai, Jay, Zane, Cole, Lloyd, and Nya). He is the son of the First Spinjitzu Master and brother to the antagonist Garmadon.
Design Notes
The beard piece was a revolutionary mold for the time, allowing 'elder' characters to have distinct silhouettes. The use of a fabric skirt over standard printed legs was a premium touch for early Ninjago figures.
Similar Minifigures
Sensei Wu (Kimono with gold patterns), Master Wu (Movie version), and Sensei Garmadon (Good version).
Collectibility
High for Ninjago completists as this is the 'original' look. Stable in value but not an 'investment' piece due to high circulation numbers.
History
Debuted in 2011 as part of the initial Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu launch. This specific design remained the standard for Wu until the 'Rebooted' and 'Tournament of Elements' waves updated his look.
Interesting Facts
Despite his age in the show, this minifigure uses standard adult legs rather than short legs. His beard piece is made of a softer, more flexible plastic than typical LEGO elements.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the original four Ninja (Kai, Jay, Cole, Zane) in their 'DX' or 'Pilot' suits. Best placed on a stone-themed MOC or a Dojo baseplate.
Modification Potential
The head and beard are parts of the 'Old Man' starter kit for MOC builders creating martial arts or fantasy-themed displays.
Overall Assessment
The quintessential Sensei Wu. While the figure in the image is missing its hat and staff, the torso and leg printing appear to be in good condition. A foundational piece for any Ninjago collection.