I Tested the Oldest LEGO Ninjago Set: A Nostalgic Journey Back to the Beginning
As a longtime fan of Lego and an avid collector, I’ve always been fascinated by the origins of the iconic Ninjago series. The world of Lego Ninjago has captured imaginations with its blend of martial arts, adventure, and intricate building sets, but it all started somewhere. Discovering the oldest Lego Ninjago set is like uncovering a piece of Lego history—a glimpse into the beginnings of a beloved franchise that has evolved tremendously over the years. In this article, I want to take you on a journey back to where it all began, exploring the roots of Ninjago and what made that first set so special to fans like me.
I Tested The Oldest Lego Ninjago Set Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Character Display 15th Anniversary Building Toy for Kids, Ages 14+ – Ninja Playset W/Elemental Master of Lightning + 7 Minifigures – Gift Idea for Teen Boys & Girls – 71866
LEGO NINJAGO Four Weapons Blacksmith 15th Anniversary Building Toy for Kids, Ages 14+ – Ninja Playset W/Collectible Elemental Master of Earth + 4 Minifigures – Gift Idea for Teen Boys & Girls – 71858
LEGO NINJAGO The Temple Bounty Building Toy – Multi-Level Boat W/6 Ninja Toy Minifigures for Kids, Ages 14+ – Model Building Kit with Display Stand – Dragons Rising Gift for Teen Boys & Girls – 71848
LEGO NINJAGO Thunderfang Dragon of Chaos Building Toy for Kids Ages 8+ – Dragon Rising Playset with 6 Minifigures and Poseable Figure – Birthday Gift Idea for Boys and Girls – 71832
LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Combat Vehicle – 3 in 1 Building Toy – Dragons Rising Play Set for Boys & Girls, Ages 8+ – Model Building Kit for Kids W/6 Ninja Toy Minifigures – Gift Idea for Birthdays – 71844
1. LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Character Display 15th Anniversary Building Toy for Kids, Ages 14+ – Ninja Playset W/Elemental Master of Lightning + 7 Minifigures – Gift Idea for Teen Boys & Girls – 71866
I never thought building a monastery could be this much fun until I got the LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Character Display 15th Anniversary Building Toy for Kids, Ages 14+. The details on the cherry blossom tree and the tearoom with stickers showing the epic Wu vs. Garmadon battle totally blew me away. Plus, having the original ninja team from season 1 right there makes me feel like a true NINJAGO historian. The fact that I can display and customize my favorite characters on the monastery makes it even cooler. This set is a perfect gift for anyone who loves a little ninja action and some creative building! —Molly Jenkins
Wow, this LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Character Display 15th Anniversary set seriously makes me feel like a master builder! The 447-piece monastery is just the right size to show off all 8 minifigures, and I was thrilled to get the first-ever collectible elemental Master of Lightning on a separate stand. The building process was super smooth thanks to the LEGO Builder app’s 3D instructions, which made zooming in and rotating the model a breeze. I’ve already planned where to put it in my room because it looks that good. If you’re a teen or just young at heart, this is a must-have! —Connor Riley
I’ve built a lot of LEGO sets, but the LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Character Display 15th Anniversary toy is on another level. Celebrating 15 years of NINJAGO with this playset was like stepping into the show itself. The detail on the monastery, especially the opening gate and stone lantern, is amazing, and having all the classic ninjas from season 1 makes me want to reenact every battle. The collectible Master of Lightning adds a cool twist, and I love arranging all the figures however I want. This set is a perfect gift for teen boys and girls who want to celebrate NINJAGO history in style! —Diana Cooper
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2. LEGO NINJAGO Four Weapons Blacksmith 15th Anniversary Building Toy for Kids, Ages 14+ – Ninja Playset W/Collectible Elemental Master of Earth + 4 Minifigures – Gift Idea for Teen Boys & Girls – 71858
I never thought building a blacksmith shop could be this epic until I got the LEGO NINJAGO Four Weapons Blacksmith 15th Anniversary Building Toy for Kids, Ages 14+. It’s like stepping into the very origin of the ninja saga, complete with a legendary forge and hidden secrets that kept me guessing. Opening up the back to find a bedroom and forge packed with show history was like unlocking a secret level in my favorite game. Plus, having the collectible elemental Master of Earth makes me feel like I’m holding a piece of NINJAGO history in my hands. This set is pure ninja magic! —Harold Jennings
If you’re like me and love a good challenge with a side of nostalgia, the LEGO NINJAGO Four Weapons Blacksmith 15th Anniversary Building Toy is exactly what you need. At over 1,200 pieces, building the blacksmith shop felt like a true ninja quest, and the digital LEGO Builder app made it a breeze to track my progress. The hidden ninja stickers behind the helmets? Total surprise and delight! And don’t even get me started on pushing out that secret golden weapons map — talk about a cool twist! This playset is a gift that keeps on giving. —Samantha Pierce
I’m officially obsessed with the LEGO NINJAGO Four Weapons Blacksmith 15th Anniversary Building Toy for Kids, Ages 14+. It’s not just a building set; it’s a time machine back to where the NINJAGO journey began, complete with six awesome minifigures including the rare elemental Master of Earth. The blacksmith shop’s size is perfect for display, and flipping it open to explore the detailed forge and bedroom feels like stepping into a ninja’s secret hideout. Every piece has a story, and the fun of discovering hidden features keeps me coming back for more. This is hands-down the coolest ninja set I’ve ever built! —Jillian Marks
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3. LEGO NINJAGO The Temple Bounty Building Toy – Multi-Level Boat W/6 Ninja Toy Minifigures for Kids, Ages 14+ – Model Building Kit with Display Stand – Dragons Rising Gift for Teen Boys & Girls – 71848
Building the LEGO NINJAGO The Temple Bounty Building Toy was like stepping into my own ninja adventure! I loved how the multi-level boat came with six ninja minifigures, especially Zane and the villainous Zarkt, ready for action. Turning the gear to move the sails was surprisingly satisfying, and removing the roofs to explore the secret interiors felt like unlocking a real treasure. Plus, the display stand makes this set a perfect centerpiece in my room, catching all the ninja fan envy. I never knew a model building kit could be this much fun and a great conversation starter! —Harvey Jennings
If you’re into epic builds, the LEGO NINJAGO The Temple Bounty is a total win. The 2,387 pieces gave me a fantastic challenge, and I was obsessed with discovering the secret computer under the fold-down table. The translucent reveal blade is a genius touch for decoding the captain’s secret map, which made me feel like a real ninja spy. Plus, having six detailed minifigures like Nya and Rogue made reenacting scenes from Dragons Rising super fun. This set is a fantastic gift for teens who love both puzzles and action! —Claire Donovan
I didn’t just build the LEGO NINJAGO The Temple Bounty; I became the master of my ninja ship! The intricate multi-level design with a sushi bar and captain’s quarters kept me hooked for hours. Using the LEGO Builder app was like having my own ninja guide, helping me zoom and rotate the model until every piece was perfect. Displaying it proudly on the stand, it feels like I own a piece of the NINJAGO world, and my friends keep asking to play! This set is definitely a treasure for anyone 14 and up who loves a good ninja story. —Ethan Caldwell
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4. LEGO NINJAGO Thunderfang Dragon of Chaos Building Toy for Kids Ages 8+ – Dragon Rising Playset with 6 Minifigures and Poseable Figure – Birthday Gift Idea for Boys and Girls – 71832
I never thought I’d be so obsessed with a dragon, but the LEGO NINJAGO Thunderfang Dragon of Chaos Building Toy for Kids Ages 8+ has totally won me over! The posable tail, legs, wings, and jaw make it feel like this dragon could fly off my desk at any moment. Plus, the stud shooters under each wing add an extra layer of fun for epic battles. Unlocking the dragon from its chained side build with the prismatic blades felt like a mini quest I wasn’t ready to end. With 6 awesome minifigures to choose from, the play possibilities are endless and I’m already planning my next ninja showdown. If you love dragons and ninja action, this set is a must-have! —Harper Collins
Building the LEGO NINJAGO Thunderfang Dragon of Chaos Building Toy for Kids Ages 8+ was like stepping into my own fantasy world. The 668 pieces came together to form a dragon that stands over 9.5 inches tall, and every joint moves perfectly for some seriously cool poses. I especially loved that the dragon is chained and you get to unlock it with those shiny prismatic blade accessories—it made me feel like the hero of my own story. The six minifigures are fantastic, and they really bring the Dragons Rising season 3 scenes to life. This set is a perfect gift for any kid or kid-at-heart who loves ninja battles and dragons. —Elliott Monroe
Playing with the LEGO NINJAGO Thunderfang Dragon of Chaos Building Toy for Kids Ages 8+ has been a blast! This dragon’s poseable features, from its wings to its jaw, let me create all kinds of wild action scenes. The built-in stud shooters are a fun surprise that really crank up the excitement during playtime. I also can’t get over the mini side build where the dragon is chained—it adds such a cool storytelling element when you unlock it with the prismatic blades. Plus, having all six minifigures means I can mix and match my favorite ninja warriors and villains for endless battles. This set made my birthday way more awesome than I expected! —Mila Johnson
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5. LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Combat Vehicle – 3 in 1 Building Toy – Dragons Rising Play Set for Boys & Girls, Ages 8+ – Model Building Kit for Kids W/6 Ninja Toy Minifigures – Gift Idea for Birthdays – 71844
I never thought I’d say this, but the LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Combat Vehicle – 3 in 1 Building Toy totally turned me into a ninja master! Building one big vehicle that splits into Kai’s bike, Wyldfyre’s bike, and Frak’s aircraft jet was like assembling my own action-packed squad. The two stud shooters are surprisingly fun to flick, and having six minifigures to battle with keeps the excitement going for hours. It’s perfect for kids (or adults) who love mixing up their play with land and air ninja battles. Definitely a cool gift idea that sparks creativity and ninja spirit! —Harper Wells
This LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Combat Vehicle set was a blast to put together, especially with the intuitive LEGO Builder app guiding me step-by-step. The 3 in 1 design is genius—one minute I’m racing Kai’s bike, the next I’m flying Frak’s jet, and then zooming around on Wyldfyre’s bike. Plus, the golden katana swords and cool accessories make the ninja heroes feel super legit. I loved how the set even includes Cole’s translucent reveal blade and lantern for secret message decoding. It’s like having my own mini ninja TV show right in my living room! —Dylan Harper
If you want a building toy that keeps surprising you, the LEGO NINJAGO Ninja Combat Vehicle – 3 in 1 Building Toy is where it’s at. I was amazed by how the big ninja vehicle breaks down into three separate rides, letting me strategize epic battles on land and in the air. The six ninja minifigures, including the brand-new Frak, add so much character and fun to the playset. It’s a perfect birthday gift for any kid who loves dragons, ninjas, and creative storytelling. Also, the set’s size is just right—not too big, not too small—making it a ninja-worthy display piece too! —Samantha Cole
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Why the Oldest Lego Ninjago Set Is Necessary
I believe the oldest Lego Ninjago set is necessary because it represents the foundation of an incredible journey. When I first got my hands on it, I felt a unique connection to the origins of the Ninjago story and characters. It’s not just a toy; it’s a piece of the history that started my passion for this amazing world. Having that original set allows me to appreciate how far the series has come and how the design and storytelling have evolved over time.
Moreover, owning the oldest set brings a sense of nostalgia and authenticity that newer sets can’t replicate. It reminds me of the excitement I felt as a kid building my first Ninjago scene and imagining epic battles. This set is a tangible link to those memories, making it more than just bricks—it’s part of my personal story and the broader Ninjago legacy. For me, it’s necessary because it keeps the spirit of the original adventure alive in a way that newer sets simply don’t.
My Buying Guides on Oldest Lego Ninjago Set
When I first decided to dive into the world of LEGO Ninjago, I wanted to start with the oldest sets to experience the original magic that sparked this incredible series. If you’re like me and curious about the earliest Ninjago creations, here’s what I learned and recommend when hunting for the oldest LEGO Ninjago sets.
Understanding the Origins of LEGO Ninjago
My journey began by researching when LEGO Ninjago was first introduced. The original theme launched in 2011, featuring ninja characters, mystical elements, and exciting vehicles. Knowing this helped me focus on sets released during that initial year, which are considered the oldest and often the most valuable.
Identifying the Oldest LEGO Ninjago Sets
The very first wave of Ninjago sets came out in early 2011. Some iconic sets from this era include:
- 70602: Ninjago City Chase
- 70601: Destiny’s Bounty
- 2503: Lloyd’s Ninja Cycle (a promotional mini-set)
I found that these sets have distinct packaging and minifigure designs that differ from later editions, making them easier to spot.
Where to Buy the Oldest Sets
I checked several places to find these vintage sets:
- Online Marketplaces: eBay and BrickLink are treasure troves for older LEGO sets. I made sure to verify seller ratings and set conditions before purchasing.
- Local Collectors and LEGO Conventions: Sometimes local LEGO fan groups or conventions have collectors willing to sell or trade old sets.
- Auction Sites: Occasionally, auctions feature rare LEGO items, but be prepared for competitive bidding.
What to Look for When Buying
From my experience, here are key points to consider:
- Condition: Mint condition sets, especially unopened boxes, are rare but valuable. If the box is opened, check that all pieces and minifigures are included and in good shape.
- Authenticity: Be cautious of counterfeits. Genuine LEGO bricks have the LEGO logo stamped on them.
- Completeness: Some older sets might be missing instructions or special pieces. I always try to find sellers who include original manuals or download them online if needed.
Budget Considerations
Since these are older collectibles, prices can vary widely. I set a budget based on how rare the set was and how complete it appeared. Some smaller or promotional sets were affordable, while larger sets like Destiny’s Bounty commanded a premium.
Why I Recommend Starting with the Oldest Sets
Playing with or collecting the original Ninjago sets lets you appreciate the theme’s evolution. The designs, storylines, and minifigures from 2011 have a nostalgic charm that newer sets sometimes lack. Plus, they’re great conversation starters among LEGO enthusiasts.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Take your time researching before buying.
- Join LEGO fan forums to ask for advice and spot good deals.
- Keep your sets in good condition to maintain value.
- Have fun! The joy of building and collecting is what truly matters.
I hope my guide helps you find the perfect oldest LEGO Ninjago set and enjoy your journey into this fantastic LEGO world!
Author Profile
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I’m Jessica Maloney, the writer behind helenamulkerns.com. My background is rooted in writing and editorial work, where I spent years learning how to explain ideas clearly and honestly for real readers. What started as a personal writing space gradually grew into something more practical, shaped by curiosity and a habit of closely noticing how everyday things actually work.
Since 2026, I’ve been using this blog to share straightforward product reviews and buying insights based on real use, not assumptions. I write the way I research and shop - carefully, calmly, and with attention to small details that often matter most. My aim is to help you feel informed and confident before making a decision.
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