Sensei Wu - Black Kimono
njo025 · Ninjago
Pilot Episodes / Rise of the Snakes · 2011
Figure ID
njo025
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2011
Rarity
Uncommon. While part of the highly popular first wave of Ninjago, this specific black outfit version was less common than the white-robed variants, though still accessible in mid-range sets of that era.
Head
Yellow classic skin tone with bushy white eyebrows and black eyes. It features a unique dual-molded long white beard piece that fits over the neck post. Included is a Tan Conical Asian Hat (Coolie hat).
Torso
Black torso with a kimino-style opening. Features white sleeves and yellow hands. Printing includes a gold 'Wu' symbol or kanji-inspired characters on the left chest and back, with a tied grey belt at the waist.
Legs
Black legs with grey hip piece. The printing continues the tied belt from the torso and features gold kanji-style characters running down the left leg.
Accessories
Usually paired with a 'Staff of Dragons' (a brown 6L bar/staff) or a bo staff. This specific figure includes the tan conical hat and the iconic long white beard piece.
Color Scheme
A striking contrast of black and white with gold metallic accents and a tan hat. This 'black kimono' look represents his more formal or combat-ready attire compared to his traditional white master robes.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing for the 2011 era. Printing is featured on the torso front, torso back, and the front of the legs. The gold is slightly metallic and has held up well over time on most specimens.
Variants
Wu has dozens of variants; this black version differs from the more common white-robed 'njo002' and the 'njo046' versions which lack leg printing or have different robe patterns.
Condition Notes
The white beard piece is prone to 'clutch' failure over time or can become discolored. Check for gold print fading on the legs. The tan hat can experience stress marks at the center connection point.
Estimated Value
Used: $8.00 - $12.00; New (pulled from set): $18.00 - $25.00. Value is stable but not skyrocketing as many newer Wu variants exist.
Price (New)
Originally released in sets ranging from $19.99 (Spinners) to $69.99 (Fire Temple).
Compatible Sets
2507 Fire Temple, 2255 Sensei Wu (Spinner), and 2521 Lightning Dragon Battle.
Character Background
The mentor of the original four Ninja (Kai, Jay, Cole, Zane). Brother to Garmadon and son of the First Spinjitzu Master. This version depicts him during the initial conflict with the Skulkin army.
Design Notes
One of the first Ninjago figures to utilize the long beard mold and conical hat together, setting the visual standard for the 'Master' archetype in the theme.
Similar Minifigures
Master Wu (njo202), Sensei Wu (njo002), and various Garmadon figures.
Collectibility
High for Ninjago 'completionists' and fans of the original 'Pilot' era sets. It is a foundational character for the theme.
History
Released at the very launch of Ninjago in 2011. This launched one of LEGO's most successful original IPs, and this figure is one of the pillars of that history.
Interesting Facts
The gold characters on his robe are not actual Chinese or Japanese characters but a 'Ninjargon' cipher that LEGO developed for the series.
Display Suggestions
Looks best placed in a dojo MOC or alongside the original four 2011 Ninja in their DX or basic suits. Use a 'floating' stand to mimic a jump-kick or meditative pose.
Modification Potential
The beard and hat are frequently used for MOC-ing custom martial arts masters or fantasy wizards.
Overall Assessment
An iconic piece of LEGO history. While not the most expensive figure, its design is timeless and instantly recognizable to any fan of the Ninjago franchise.