Sensei Wu - Black Kimono
njo026 · Ninjago
Masters of Spinjitzu / Rise of the Snakes · 2011/2012; context: First major wave of Ninjago during the peak of the Rise of the Snakes storyline.
Figure ID
njo026
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2011/2012; context: First major wave of Ninjago during the peak of the Rise of the Snakes storyline.
Rarity
Uncommon; limited to only two modular sets and one combat spinner pack during the early 2010s.
Head
Yellow head with bushy white eyebrows, calm closed-mouth expression, and a thick white beard piece (part 93223). Tan Conical Asian Hat (Coolie) sits on top.
Torso
Black torso with traditional Master's robe printing; tan Asian characters on left chest, white sleeves with yellow hands.
Legs
Black legs with black hips; left leg features tan Asian character printing to match the torso design.
Accessories
Brown bo staff (long bar 6L); the conical tan hat and long white beard are signature removable accessories.
Color Scheme
A sharp contrast of Black and White with Tan accents, symbolizing the balance of the Master character.
Printing Details
Pad-printed; features high-contrast tan characters on black plastic; detail holds up well but prone to torso 'smudging' if cleaned aggressively.
Variants
Standard version appears in black robes; other variations include White Kimono (njo012) and various Golden/Legacy outfits.
Condition Notes
Watch for fraying on the beard tip and stress marks/cracks in the brown staff. The tan printing on the leg is a common point for friction wear.
Estimated Value
New: $15 - $22, Used: $8 - $12, depending on the condition of the beard piece and staff.
Price (New)
$4.99 (Spinner set) to $119.99 (Destiny's Bounty origin set).
Compatible Sets
2507 Fire Temple, 9446 Destiny's Bounty, and 9555 Wu (Spinnners Pack).
Character Background
The son of the First Spinjitzu Master and brother to Garmadon; Sensei Wu is the mentor who recruited the original four ninja.
Design Notes
First introduction of the 'beard' mold specifically for the Ninjago line, which became a staple for the character over the next decade.
Similar Minifigures
Sensei Wu (njo012 White Kimono), Garmadon (Original), and Master Wu from the Ninjago Movie series.
Collectibility
High; early Ninjago figures (2011-2012) are currently appreciating as nostalgia for the original series grows.
History
This specific outfit represents Wu's appearance during the pivotal battles against the Great Devourer and the Serpentine tribes.
Interesting Facts
The writing on the torso and leg is 'Ninjartic', a fictional LEGO alphabet; it translates to symbols representing his wisdom or 'Master'.
Display Suggestions
Ideal for a meditation-style vignette or standing on the deck of the 2012 Destiny's Bounty ship.
Modification Potential
The beard and hat are highly sought-after parts for creating custom 'Old Man' or 'Monk' MOC characters.
Overall Assessment
An iconic piece of Ninjago history. It captures the essence of the classic master trope perfectly and is a must-have for Ninjago completionists.