Sensei Wu - White Robe, Tan Asian Hat, Gold Staff
njo026 · Ninjago
Rise of the Snakes / Masters of Spinjitzu · 2011/2012 (First appeared in 2011 Spinjitzu sets)
Figure ID
njo026
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2011/2012 (First appeared in 2011 Spinjitzu sets)
Rarity
Uncommon. While widely available during the height of the theme's first major wave, it remained specific to mid-tier sets and spinners.
Head
Standard yellow head with black eyes, white eyebrows, and a large white beard piece (molded plastic) that fits over the neck peg. Topped with a Tan Conical Asian Hat (Coolie Hat).
Torso
White torso with black, metallic gold, and silver printing. Features a decorative kimono pattern with a cloud/swirl motif and a dark grey sash. Includes white arms and light bluish grey hands.
Legs
White legs with black and gold detailed printing on the hips and the front of the legs, continuing the ornate kimono/robe pattern from the torso.
Accessories
Standard gold 6L bar/staff. In this image, it is uniquely modified with a trans-blue diamond/jewel attached to a gold mechanical claw/light holder at the top, which is a custom or set-specific addition.
Color Scheme
Primary white with metallic gold, black, and light grey accents. The color white represents Master Wu's status as a master of Creation.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing. The metallic gold ink on the torso and legs was particularly sharp for this era. Printing is limited to the front of the legs and both sides of the torso.
Variants
Numerous. This is the 'Classic' or 'Legacy' style. Other variants include Wu in a black robe, Wu with a cape (Kimono), and more recent movie/Legacy redesigns with different beard molds.
Condition Notes
The white plastic is highly susceptible to yellowing if exposed to UV light. The beard piece is made of a softer plastic that can accumulate dust or suffer from 'bite marks' or deformation over time.
Estimated Value
Used: $8.00 - $15.00 USD. New/Mint: $20.00 - $25.00 USD. Prices vary based on the presence of the hat and the specific condition of the white plastic.
Price (New)
Originally appeared in 'Spinnner' sets retailing for $9.99 and larger sets like Fire Temple (2507) retailing for $119.99.
Compatible Sets
2507 Fire Temple, 2255 Sensei Wu (Spinner), 2521 Lightning Dragon Battle.
Character Background
The son of the First Spinjitzu Master and brother to Lord Garmadon. Wu is the wise mentor to the core ninja team (Kai, Jay, Cole, Zane, Lloyd).
Design Notes
This figure solidified the 'iconic' look of Master Wu. The beard mold used here is a classic piece that has since been updated in the Ninjago Movie version to include a different texture.
Similar Minifigures
Sensei Wu (Kimono) njo064, Sensei Wu (Legacy) njo495, and Master Wu (Movie) njo312.
Collectibility
High. As a core protagonist and a 'first-wave' iconic figure, he is a staple for any Ninjago collector.
History
Initially introduced in 2011 to launch the Ninjago theme, this version of Wu became the face of the character for nearly six years of television and play sets.
Interesting Facts
The staff of Master Wu is often depicted as having mystical properties, though in the sets, it is usually just a simple gold bar. The 'diamond' topper in the image is a common user modification or seen in specific 'Weapon pack' configurations.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed alongside the four original 2011 Ninja (Kai, Jay, Zane, Cole) in their DX or original suits. Use a black or tiered stand to make the white robe pop.
Modification Potential
The staff is the most modified part of this figure; collectors often swap the gold bar for a brown one or add various 'relics' to the top to represent different seasons of the show.
Overall Assessment
An essential piece of LEGO Ninjago history. It captures the 'Mentor' archetype perfectly and remains one of the most recognizable figures from the entire theme.