Master Wu - Legacy, White Robe with Gold Staff
njo498 · Ninjago
Legacy · 2019 (First appearance in Monastery of Spinjitzu)
Figure ID
njo498
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2019 (First appearance in Monastery of Spinjitzu)
Rarity
Uncommon. While appearing in a major set, this specific 'Legacy' version with the printed robe and traditional beard mold is exclusive to a few key sets from the 10th-anniversary era.
Head
Yellow skin tone with thick white bushy eyebrows and a slight smile. Usually covered by an extra-long white beard piece (molded plastic) and capped with a Tan conical Asian hat (coolie hat).
Torso
White robe with red circular Master Wu crest on the right chest; detailed light bluish gray and black belt cinching the waist; back printing continues the robe folds and belt line. White arms with yellow hands.
Legs
White hips and legs with printing that depicts the bottom of the robe, specifically including red trim patterns ('Ninjago' script or stylized loops) on the lower shins/feet area.
Accessories
Includes a Tan (or Pearl Gold in some variations) bo staff. The conical hat and long white beard piece are essential character-specific attachments.
Color Scheme
Primary white and yellow; accented with tan, gold, and red. The white symbolizes the character's status as a Master of Creation.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso (front and back) and legs (front). The 'Legacy' line features refined, sharper detailing compared to the original 2011 versions of the character.
Variants
Numerous. Variants include 'Movie' Wu (fabric skirt), 'Dragon Master' Wu (gold armor), 'Teen Wu', and the original 2011 pilot version with less detailed leg printing.
Condition Notes
The beard piece often causes 'neck stretch' if left on for years; the tan staff is prone to bite marks or bending. White plastic is susceptible to yellowing if exposed to UV light.
Estimated Value
Used: $5.00 - $8.00; New: $10.00 - $15.00. Value remains stable due to his status as a core protagonist.
Price (New)
Originally included in set 70670 ($79.99 retail), making the figure approximately 10% of the set's calculated value at time of release.
Compatible Sets
70670 Monastery of Spinjitzu, 71705 Destiny's Bounty (Legacy version), and 111902 (Ninjago Magazine Gift).
Character Background
The son of the First Spinjitzu Master and mentor to the Ninja. Master Wu is centuries old and uses his wisdom to guide Kai, Jay, Zane, Cole, Lloyd, and Nya.
Design Notes
The Legacy line redesigned Wu to strike a balance between the 2011 original aesthetic and the more complex printing of the modern era. The beard mold remains one of LEGO's most iconic character-specific pieces.
Similar Minifigures
Sensei Garmadon (njo094), Master Wu (Movie version - njo314), and Firstbourne Era Wu (njo471).
Collectibility
High for completionists. Wu is the 'Gandalf' or 'Obi-Wan' of Ninjago, making every main-line version of him essential for a full collection.
History
First appearing in 2011 as 'Sensei Wu', the character has evolved through 'Master Wu' and reached this 'Legacy' form which celebrates the theme's 10-year journey.
Interesting Facts
The red symbols on his feet are often interpreted as stylized 'W' for Wu or 'N' for Ninja; the beard piece is designed to allow the staff to be tucked under the arm.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed at the top of the Monastery of Spinjitzu or on the deck of the Destiny's Bounty. Use a clear 1x2 brick to elevate him slightly behind his students.
Modification Potential
The beard and hat are frequently used by MOC builders for custom monks, wizards, or historical Asian-themed figures.
Overall Assessment
A quintessential Ninjago figure. It captures the serene but powerful essence of the character with clean, modern printing. A must-buy for any Ninjago enthusiast.