Equity Allocation Between Controlling and Non-Controlling Interests (Detail) (HOST HOTELS & RESORTS, INC., USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 23, 2012	Mar. 25, 2011
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	$ 6,713
Issuance of common stock	183
Dividends declared on common stock	(42)
Other changes in ownership	(13)
Other comprehensive income	19	4
Ending Balance	6,860
Parent
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	6,677
Net income (loss)	(2)
Issuance of common stock	183
Dividends declared on common stock	(42)
Other changes in ownership	(13)
Other comprehensive income	19
Ending Balance	6,822
Noncontrolling Interest
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	36
Net income (loss)	2
Ending Balance	38
Redeemable non-controlling interests
Stockholders Equity Note [Line Items]
Beginning Balance	158
Other changes in ownership	13
Ending Balance	$ 171