Litigation, Other Contingencies and Guarantees (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
3 Months Ended
May 04, 2013
Estimate Potential Environmental Liabilities Minimum $ 18
Recorded Best Estimate 20
Estimate Potential Environmental Liabilities Maximum 25
J.C.Penney Direct Marketing Services, Inc. [Member]
 
Maximum Exposure of Guarantee 20
Property Lease Guarantee [Member]
 
Maximum Exposure of Guarantee 18
Capital Contribution Guarantee [Member]
 
Guarantor Obligations, Origin and Purpose In connection with the redemption of two million of our Simon Property Group, L.P. (SPG) REIT units, we agreed to make future capital contributions to SPG under certain circumstances.
Guarantor Obligations, Triggering Event Capital contributions would be required only if (i) one or more unsecured senior notes or term loans of SPG are in default and (ii) the aggregate amount received and/or realized by the lenders with respect to such notes or loans upon the exhaustion of all other remedies available to them is less than the maximum amount of all capital contribution commitments of the Company and other parties with similar commitments.
Maximum Exposure of Guarantee $ 360
Guarantor Obligations, Term Under certain circumstances, including the disposition of its remaining SPG REIT units, the Company can terminate its obligation.