Sensei Wu - White Robe, Tan Asian Hat, Fabric Skirt
njo026 · Ninjago
Rise of the Snakes · 2011/2012 (First debuted in late 2011 sets within the 2012 Wave)
Figure ID
njo026
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2011/2012 (First debuted in late 2011 sets within the 2012 Wave)
Rarity
Uncommon. While common in the early 2010s, it appeared in larger, now-retired sets like Destiny's Bounty, making it desirable for nostalgic collectors.
Head
Yellow classic skin tone with white bushy eyebrows and a determined expression. It includes a specific long white beard piece (mold 93223) that fits over the neck peg.
Torso
White torso with a traditional Kimono/Sensei robe print. Printing includes a black and grey toggled fastener (frogs) down the center and light grey detailing. Arms are white with yellow hands.
Legs
Tan legs with custom printing at the feet representing brown sandals. This specific version features a wraparound fabric 'dress' or skirt element to simulate a robe.
Accessories
Conical Tan Asian Hat (Coolie hat). In most sets, he originally came with a brown wooden staff (6L bar), though it is missing in this image.
Color Scheme
Primary white and tan with yellow skin accents. The neutral palette reflects the character's status as a wise, peaceful master.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing on the torso (front and back) and specific sandal printing on the toes of the legs. The alignment on this era's Ninjago figures is generally very precise.
Variants
There are over 30 versions of Wu. This specific variant (njo026) is distinguished by the combination of the fabric skirt and the tan hat. Other versions have gold hats, different robes, or capes.
Condition Notes
The fabric skirt is the primary wear point; it can fray or crease. The white plastic is prone to UV yellowing if displayed in sunlight. Check for cracks in the torso under the arms.
Estimated Value
$10.00 - $18.00 USD (Used/Complete). For just the figure in the image condition, market value is approximately $12.00 USD.
Price (New)
Retail sets ranged from $39.99 (9446 Destiny's Bounty) to $69.99 (9450 Epic Dragon Battle). He was not available as a single purchase polybag in this outfit.
Compatible Sets
9446 Destiny's Bounty; 9450 Epic Dragon Battle; 30087 Cole's Car (Promotional target bundle).
Character Background
Sensei Wu is the son of the First Spinjitzu Master and brother to Garmadon. He is the mentor to the original four Ninja (Kai, Jay, Zane, Cole) and a central figure in the Ninjago lore.
Design Notes
This figure marked the transition of Wu from the 'Pilot' style to the more detailed 'Rise of the Snakes' style. The use of a fabric waist element was a premium touch for the era.
Similar Minifigures
Sensei Wu (njo002 - Pilot version), Sensei Wu (njo200 - Dragon Robe), and Wu from the Ninjago Movie series.
Collectibility
High. As a core protagonist from the early 'Golden Age' of Ninjago, he is a cornerstone for any completionist collector of the theme.
History
First introduced in 2011, Sensei Wu's design changed significantly over 10+ years. This version represents his look during the theme's explosion in popularity during the TV series' first seasons.
Interesting Facts
The beard mold used here was specifically designed for the Ninjago line but has since been used for various 'Old Man' characters in the City and Castle themes.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside the original 2011/2012 Ninja (ZX versions) or on the deck of a 9446 Destiny's Bounty. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent the white plastic from turning yellow.
Modification Potential
The fabric skirt and beard are frequently used by MOC builders to create custom wizards, monks, or historical Asian-themed figures.
Overall Assessment
An iconic Ninjago figure. While not the most expensive Wu, this specific 'Robe' variant is the most recognizable version of the character from the early TV show. A must-have for Ninjago fans.