Sensei Wu - Black Robe
njo026 · Ninjago
Masters of Spinjitzu · 2011
Figure ID
njo026
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2011
Rarity
Uncommon; released in only two sets during the first year of Ninjago's Pilot/Rise of the Snakes era.
Head
Yellow classic skin tone with bushy white eyebrows and mustache printing. Includes a separate long white beard piece and a Black Sensei Hat (Conical Asian Style).
Torso
Black torso with white sleeves and yellow hands. Printing features a black robe with a grey belt and gold/tan Asian-inspired decorative symbols.
Legs
Black legs with black hip piece. Printing on the left leg (the viewer's right) features three tan/gold Japanese-style characters or symbols.
Accessories
Typically equipped with a Brown or Black Staff (the image shows a black variant). The figure includes the signature rubberized long white beard (Part 93223) and black conical hat.
Color Scheme
Monochromatic black and white base with yellow skin accents and tan/gold calligraphy-style printing.
Printing Details
Pad-printed torso (front only) and front leg detail. The printing mimics traditional kimonos and features 'Ninjargon' or similar artistic symbols.
Variants
There are many variants of Wu (White Robes, Gold Robes, Movie version). This specific njo026 is distinguished by the black robe and black hat combo.
Condition Notes
The white beard is made of a softer material that can attract dust or stain over time. Check for gold print fading on the legs and torso. Hat can show bite marks on the top rim.
Estimated Value
Used: $5.00 - $10.00; New/Mint: $15.00 - $25.00. Value varies based on the presence of the original beard and hat pieces.
Price (New)
Originally included in sets 2255 (Sensei Wu Spinner) for $9.99 and 2507 (Fire Temple) for $119.99.
Compatible Sets
2255 Sensei Wu (Spinner Set), 2507 Fire Temple.
Character Background
Sensei Wu is the master trainer of the original four Ninja and the son of the First Spinjitzu Master. This 'Black Robe' version represents his appearance during the initial pilot episodes and early season battles.
Design Notes
One of the first 'Master' figures in contemporary LEGO history to use the specialized long beard mold which hooks around the neck peg.
Similar Minifigures
Sensei Wu - White Robe (njo012), Sensei Wu - Kimono (njo072), Garmadon (njo013).
Collectibility
High for Ninjago completionists as it is the 'original' dark-clothed mentor figure from the theme's inception.
History
Launched Ninjago in 2011 as part of the first wave. This version of Wu was briefly available before his white-robed variant became the standard 'legacy' look.
Interesting Facts
The symbols on his clothing are artistic representations and were among the first instances of specific Ninjargon-like symbols predating the fully fleshed-out language used in the 2017 movie.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the original 2011 Ninja (Kai, Jay, Cole, Zane) or inside the 2011 Fire Temple set for maximum thematic accuracy.
Modification Potential
The black hat and white beard are highly sought-after parts for creating custom martial arts masters or MOC village elders.
Overall Assessment
A foundational Ninjago figure. While not the most expensive, it carries significant nostalgia for fans of the early series and remains a stylish example of 2011 printing tech.